Special effects are techniques used in performing arts to create illusions or visual tricks, often using mechanical, optical, or digital means. In magic, special effects can enhance the spectacle, creating illusions of grandeur and impossibility. Special effects are used by a stage magician or illusionist in a performance art setting. The special effects create impossible or improbable acts seemingly achieved by supernatural forces. For example, an illusionist may appear to make a live animal appear from an empty box, and add special effects, including smoke and colorful stage lighting.

The magician’s use of special effects made the levitation seem real.